Help Us Bring Hope to Those Living with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

When Your Smile Disappears Overnight

Imagine waking up one morning and realizing you can’t move half your face. Your hearing fades. The world around you begins to spin. This is the reality for thousands of people living with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (RHS) — a rare but devastating neurological condition that strikes without warning.

What Is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, also known as herpes zoster oticus, is caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox). It attacks the facial nerve, leading to:

Sudden facial paralysis (within 24–72 hours)
Debilitating pain on the side of the head
Hearing loss and dizziness

Some patients develop paralysis and hearing changes without a visible rash, making the condition harder to diagnose and often confused with Bell’s palsy. Early treatment can make a life-changing difference — but too many patients go unheard, unseen, and unsupported.

Our 2026 Initiative: Bringing the Community Together

RHSF Patient Summit: Face Forward 2026

The Ramsay Hunt Syndrome Foundation Board is launching our most ambitious project yet — our first-ever in-person meeting, centered on patient education, advocacy, and support.

This historic event will:

Empower patients and caregivers with vital information and resources
Connect leading clinicians to share the latest in treatment and care
Build a lasting network of hope, understanding, and community

For the first time, people affected by RHS will have a space to be seen, heard, and supported.

Your Gift Makes This Possible

Your donation fuels everything we do — from hands-on education and training to the creation of a support network for patients and families.

Every dollar helps us:

Bring clinicians and patients together to share experience and expertise
Lower the cost of attendance ensuring equitable access
Create resources that turn fear into understanding and hope

Together, We Can Restore Hope

There’s no cure for Ramsay Hunt Syndrome — but together, we can bring knowledge, compassion, and connection to those who need it most.

👉 Donate today and help us make 2026 the year the Ramsay Hunt community comes together — for the first time, and for the future.

Face Forward in 2026 with RHSF

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